Aanval van artillerie op een verdedigingstoren 1648 - 1669

Albert Flamen made this drawing of an artillery attack on a defense tower, probably in the mid-17th century, using pen and ink on paper. The process of applying ink with a fine nib allowed Flamen to render incredible details and textures, such as the rough stonework of the tower, the thatched roofs of the defensive structures, and the explosive bursts of the cannon fire. Look closely, and you’ll notice the repetitive, linear strokes that define the forms and create a sense of depth. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed drawing entirely by hand. Each line represents a deliberate decision by the artist. The subject – warfare – reminds us that the skilled labor that goes into art always has a social and political context. It is a good idea to reflect on how the work’s materiality influences our understanding of its meaning. By appreciating the techniques and time involved, we can challenge the traditional separation of ‘high art’ from other forms of skilled making.